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Challenges Ahead for Libraries After Recent Elections

In recent years, libraries and their staff have faced mounting challenges, including a notable rise in politically motivated book bans and various legislative attacks. Following the recent elections, the outlook for libraries appears even more uncertain, as highlighted by the latest analysis from EveryLibrary, a nonpartisan political action committee focused on library advocacy.

According to EveryLibrary’s post-election report, the recent elections saw the selection of numerous politicians who have previously advocated for defunding libraries and have targeted library personnel. “The last three years of issues surrounding censorship and discrimination should have prompted library organizations and their advocates to take action,” the report states. The organization emphasized that without proactive measures to counter misinformation regarding libraries and their workers, voter support for these crucial institutions is unlikely to change. Furthermore, a significant number of states have enacted laws resembling Project 2025 that limit access, discriminate against marginalized groups, and endanger the jobs of librarians and educators.

EveryLibrary representatives predict that these types of attacks will become more prevalent and intense. The report concludes with a call to action, urging the library sector to engage in substantial efforts over the next four years to prevent possible reductions in funding at various governmental levels. This, they stress, will involve mobilizing communities, equipping citizens to advocate locally, and allocating significant resources towards national initiatives that clarify the vital role of libraries in American society.

Examining specific library-related measures that were on the ballot, the results were mixed. EveryLibrary tracked 73 library initiatives; of these, 54 were successful, while 13 failed, and a defunding measure in Arkansas was also rejected. While this reflects a win rate of 76%, it marks a decline from an average win rate of 90% over the past decade. Additionally, a notable decrease in the number of library ballot measures presented to voters has been observed, a trend that has been evident since 2017, with the pandemic exacerbating the situation.

The decreasing number of library initiatives on ballots is concerning to advocacy groups. According to EveryLibrary representatives, for many public libraries, seeking voter approval is often the only avenue to secure additional operating funds or to finance construction projects. If library leaders perceive the current political or social climate as unfavorable and opt against proposing ballot measures, they risk jeopardizing the financial health of their libraries.

John Chrastka, founder and executive director of EveryLibrary, remarked in an interview with PW that supporters of libraries must prepare for substantial political struggles ahead. “These challenges will be fought on a state and even zip code level,” he stated. He mentioned that EveryLibrary has established resources through FightForTheFirst.org to combat censorship, although he noted that this fight demands considerable resources. Chrastka expressed a desire to expand their coalition of allies in these grassroots efforts.

For a comprehensive look at the findings from EveryLibrary’s election night report, visit here.

Source
www.publishersweekly.com